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On Being

On Being with Krista Tippett takes up the big questions with scientists and theologians, artists and teachers -- some you know and others you'll love to meet. Each week a new discovery about the immensity of our lives.

Phillies lend name to support anti-bullying campaign

July 22, 2011

It gets better. That’s the message and the namesake for a video campaign aimed at bullied lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgenered teens. The Philadelphia Phillies are the next in line to produce an “It Gets Better” video, joining over 10,000 celebrities, regular people, activists, even President Obama. The Phillies got involved when a life-long fan, Jerome Hunt, started an online petition that earned 2,000 signatures. Hunt, who was bullied as a kid, said the videos are helpful to LGBT youth because they’re so easily accessible. “You can still get the message without having to put yourself out there if you’re not ready,” said Hunt.The Phillies would be the seventh professional sports team to get involved–Hunt says his favorite team could send a pretty strong message. “I’m sure there are some LGBT youth out there who are tremendous Phillies fans who would find some sort of comfort from seeing a video from the Phillies,” he said. A Phillies spokesperson says the team is still finalizing the video details, but Hunt says he’d like to see the big names, as well as LGBT fans sending the ‘It Gets Better’ message. And, of course, the Phanatic.